Hollywood mourns the loss of Jack Lilley, the beloved actor and stuntman, who passed away at the age of 91. Best known for his roles in Little House on the Prairie and Planet of the Apes, Lilley’s passing has left fans and co-stars heartbroken.
Melissa Gilbert’s Emotional Tribute
The news of Jack Lilley’s death was first shared by Melissa Gilbert, his Little House on the Prairie co-star. Taking to Instagram, she wrote:
“The Little House family has lost one of our own. Jack Lilley has passed away. He was one of my favorite people on the planet. He taught me to ride a horse when I was just a wee little thing. He was so patient with me.”
Gilbert expressed her gratitude for knowing Lilley, saying he “always felt like home” and ended her heartfelt tribute with:
“Oh Jack… sweet prince… may flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.”
Jack Lilley’s Family Pays Tribute
His son, Clint Lilley, confirmed the news, stating:
“You left one heck of a mark on this world, Papa. Your laugh and the spark in your eyes when you saw the ones you loved will stay with us forever.”
Jack’s death comes less than a year after the passing of his wife, Irene Lilley. His son added:
“He went to be with his bride. He just couldn’t bear another second without her.”
Lilley is survived by his two sons, Clint and Cash.
Jack Lilley’s Illustrious Hollywood Career
Jack Lilley made his Hollywood debut in the 1956 Western Gun for a Coward as a cowhand. In the early years, he appeared in numerous films and TV series, including:
- Drango
- Fury at Showdown
- The Hard Man
- Wagon Train
- Cimarron City
- Lawman
However, he became widely recognized for his work on Little House on the Prairie. Lilley played multiple characters over 40 episodes between 1974 and 1983, with his most memorable role as the stagecoach driver in Little House: The Last Farewell, the show’s finale.
Major Roles & Later Career
With decades of experience, Lilley transitioned to bigger roles, appearing in hit TV series and films such as:
- Dallas
- Fantasy Island
- Sudden Impact
- Young Guns
In the 2000s, he starred in Planet of the Apes (2001) and The Legend of Zorro (2005). His final role came in the 2022 Spaghetti Western No Name and Dynamite Davenport.
Jack Lilley’s Legacy & Final Words from His Son
Reflecting on his father’s life, Clint Lilley shared:
“He was one of a kind. We got a glimpse of the old Hollywood because he came from that era and saw the transition. He taught us that nothing was handed to you—you had to work for it.”
Jack Lilley was more than just a talented actor; he was a mentor, a devoted father, and a true Hollywood icon. His legacy will live on through the generations of actors and stunt performers he inspired.
